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Per my yearly regimen, I recently had my DEXA bone scan.

Even with my aging and family history, I was pretty confident my results would fall in the normal range. After all, I faithfully took healthy doses of natural calcium supplements, especially since I had dipped to the osteoporosis level a few years back.

The next scan following that bad test revealed I had returned to a better level and no longer had osteoporosis. Whew! After a couple of years, I decided I could cut back on my calcium supplements—not stop them, mind you, just lower my intake a bit. After all, it’s okay to play doctor for myself, right? I know what I’m doing.

Imagine my surprise when I got the less-than-desirable test results back in my patient portal with a message from my provider: You are at the osteopenia level. Your spine bone density has declined. We can discuss the next steps at your annual appointment.

That day, I humbly increased my calcium supplements to the necessary level. I now humbly anticipate my annual checkup for the “next steps.” I want to have healthy bones. My skeletal system supports my body. It gives me shape, allows movement, makes blood cells, protects my organs, and stores minerals.

I started thinking about what the wise teacher Solomon wrote about bones: “A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.”

God created joy, delight, and humor as vital parts of our lives. Medical studies confirm what King Solomon said. Laughter and enjoyment can increase the time we live. I’ve never heard of any negative side effects from laughter.

A merry heart in the Lord is everlasting and can bring a bounce to our steps a smile to our face, and refreshing health to our bones. I, for one, do not wish to have dry bones. Think of some steps you can take to put away a killjoy atmosphere and instead put on the joy of the Lord.

(Photo courtesy of pixabay and ulleo.)